It’s hard to know how to start, it has all been such a happy, crazy blur!
4 months ago I committed to this journey, and from then on time seemed to accelerate at a mind-boggling rate!. The month of August was an absolute frenzy …physically, mentally and emotionally. I could not find enough hours in the day and in the end my whole self-care routine (including sleep!) went out the window in favour of planning, packing and…most importantly, spending quality time with my loved ones. Instead of feeling stressed though, I was able to embrace letting go of the things I would normally prioritize, in order to make time for what felt most important in this time of transition. It was such a happy and exciting time, filled right to very moment of my departure with so much love, laughter and support from all the amazing people in my life.
Now I am in Spain! I don’t know exactly how long I have been here because I am trying to lose track of time, trying not to count the days. I came to a beautiful and restorative place called Alaya Retreat Centre, in the midst of old wine country, just north of Barcelona. I could not have chosen a better place to land. Here I have been welcomed so warmly with open arms by the staff and the other guests. Here I have been fed; body and mind, spirit and soul. Here I have found a space to rest…I didn’t even realize how tired I was! Here I have found a safe space not only to unwind, but to learn from gifted and inspiring teachers and to connect and converse with like-minded people from all over the world.
My epic journey has only just begun, but it has already taught me so many things! One to definitely pass on is that “stress,” even when it’s happy, positive, and exciting, can deplete you, and it takes longer and requires more patience and self-nurturing than you think to truly recover. At home I know that I would not have taken the time to properly restore myself. I am so grateful for Alaya and all of the beautiful and nurturing people here who have provided space for me, in every sense of the word. It has been a valuable and precious lesson in self care. Although going on retreat is a luxury that I cannot often afford, this experience has given me a lasting gift. One of awareness. Of what it takes to truly re-charge. I now have the knowledge and tools to create a restorative, healing space of my own when I need it.
If you can find a way to give yourself this same gift, I highly recommend spending time in this magical place with these beautiful people.
I’ve shared some photos of my time at Alaya. Now off to Girona…to ride horses through Catalonia!
Until the next…be well my friends:)
